Quick answer: Tree removal costs $400 to $1,800 on average in 2026, and most homeowners pay about $900. Pricing starts at about $9.50 to $14.50 per foot of height, then rises for thick trunks, tight access, dead or leaning trees, power lines and emergency call-outs. The stump is extra.
How much does tree removal cost in 2026?
| Tree size | Height | Typical cost |
|---|---|---|
| Small | Under 30 ft | $150 – $500 |
| Medium | 30 – 60 ft | $450 – $1,200 |
| Large | 60 – 80 ft | $1,000 – $2,000 |
| Very large | 80 ft + | $1,500 – $3,000+ |
Why height alone does not set the price
cost = height × $9.50–14.50 × trunk × access × condition × speciesStump grinding is a flat $150–400 on top- Trunk diameter: roughly double the diameter and cutting and chipping time doubles.
- Access and fall zone: a tree over a house must be dismantled and lowered on ropes, adding 30 to 60%.
- Condition: dead, diseased or leaning trees are dangerous to climb, adding 30 to 50%.
- Species: dense hardwoods like oak cost more than palms and softwoods.
A healthy 50 ft maple in an open yard
- Baseline: 50 × $9.50 to $14.50 = $475 to $725
- Midpoint: $600, or $12.00 per foot
- Add stump grinding at about $250
Result: about $850 all in
Above about 60 ft, climbing time, rigging and crane hire compound, so per-foot pricing understates the real cost.
The two biggest premiums: power lines and hazard
Power lines add 50 to 100% because a line-clearance certified arborist has to dismantle the tree section by section. If it touches utility-owned lines, call the utility first: they may remove it free.
Emergency and storm work adds 50 to 100% for after-hours crews and same-day crane hire.
Get three quotes: Tree work is dangerous and a lowball quote often means an uninsured operator. Confirm liability and workers’ compensation insurance and ask to see the certificate.
Stump removal is a separate cost
- Stump grinding, $150 to $400: grinds 6 to 12 in below ground; roots decompose over time.
- Full stump and root removal, $300 to $500+: needed if you are building or planting on the spot.
Ask for the stump to be quoted upfront. Doing it on the same visit is cheaper than a second call-out.
Does insurance cover tree removal?
Homeowners insurance may cover removal when a covered event such as a windstorm brings a tree down onto a structure or across a driveway. Preventive removal of a healthy or dead tree is usually routine maintenance. Photograph storm damage before removal and check your policy.
How to reduce tree removal cost
- Book in the off-season. Late winter is quieter than post-storm summer.
- Do your own cleanup and keep the wood.
- Bundle several trees into one visit.
- Call the utility first if power lines are involved.
- Never skip insurance checks to save money.
Frequently asked questions
How much does tree removal cost in 2026?
$400 to $1,800 on average, with most homeowners paying about $900. Small trees under 30 ft run $150 to $500; trees over 60 ft run $1,000 to $3,000 or more.
Is tree removal priced by height?
Height sets a baseline of about $9.50 to $14.50 per foot, but trunk size, access, condition, species and power lines all adjust it. Per-foot pricing understates cost above 60 ft.
Does tree removal include the stump?
Almost never. Stump grinding is $150 to $400; full stump and root removal is $300 to $500 or more.
Why does a tree near power lines cost more?
It needs line-clearance certified arborists and slow sectional work, adding 50 to 100%. If it touches utility-owned lines, the utility may remove it free.
Does homeowners insurance cover tree removal?
Often when a covered event like a storm brings a tree down onto a structure or driveway. Preventive removal of a healthy or dead tree is usually out of pocket.
Can I remove a large tree myself?
Not safely. Felling, tension in leaning limbs and nearby structures need trained, insured professionals. Small saplings are the DIY limit.
Related tools
Accuracy note: Cost ranges and multipliers come from 2026 US tree-service data published by Angi, HomeGuide and This Old House. This is a planning estimate, not a quote. Get itemized on-site quotes from insured, certified arborists.
Content Lead, Anchor AI Tools, California, USA. Spotted an error? Email hello@anchoraitools.com and it will be checked and corrected. See our editorial standards.